One effect of digital technologies is that people are increasingly expected to work virtually, meaning that they are not based together in a single workplace. This has major implications, for followers as well as leaders. Leaders fail to get honest feedback because distances in space and time hinder the development of trusting relationships. For followers, traditional expectations of one’s “boss” or team leader may not be realistic. Here are five tips for leaders who want to facilitate communication among people in a virtual workplace.

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Robert Caldini is the godfather of the study of influence and is someone who is almost always studied by people who do any type of marketing. I find that his principles are also useful in crafting communications that are designed to build teamwork and inspire groups of people. There are lots of good examples of how Caldini’s principles play out in the workplace, both in nonprofit and for-profit enterprises, as well as government agencies. Here are Caldini’s six principles of influence, along with some examples I’ve created to illustrate each principle.

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